Many of you may recall the incident last summer where our dog walker lost our dear Timmy, and thanks to a wonderful human being, he was safely returned home. (If you missed it, you can read about this wholly traumatic adventure here). This weekend we had the opportunity to truly “pay it forward”. Friday evening we left our building to make a stop at the park when we saw 2 men running towards us, chasing a frantically running dog up Bathurst St. Without thinking, we joined the chase. Within seconds, half a dozen people, including Rogers cable guys, door men, and pedestrians of all sorts joined the chase for this tiny toy dog. The poor pup ran frantically around the block, heading towards King St until he was chased into a nightclub undergoing renovation. I waited at the top of the stairs for the dog to try and make his escape. Luckily, another woman was able to chase him out and I was able to grab him and hold tight until he calmed down (not easy when the dog is biting, scratching and wiggling to escape!)

Here is a photo of the poor guy:

Fortunately, he was wearing tags which stated he was a patient of Queen St. Animal Hospital. Unfortunately, it was closed for the long weekend.

Fortunately, he was wearing tags from Toronto Animal Services. Unfortunately, they were also closed for the night. Of course, I wouldn’t mind having a little pup to hang out with for the night…but I’m sure my little Timmy wasn’t too thrilled at the prospect!

Figuring the dog was a neighbourhood resident, we decided to grab our spare leash and hang around outside – hoping the frantic owner would find us. We canvassed the ‘hood, talked to fellow owners and residents – none of whom recognized the sand-coloured dog. I posted a Tweet, complete with picture, and hoped for the best.

Just as it was beginning to get dark and we were facing the prospect of having a furry houseguest, a man ran across the park shouting at us – with joy, thankfully. (In my neighbourhood, you can never be sure!) The man had been parked nearby when his little guy decided to head out for a solo adventure. The dog was thrilled to see him. All in all, it was a great reunion, and I felt so thankful to have had the opportunity to repay the kindness that was shown to us less than a year ago. Another confirmation that karma really does exist!